8.25.14

Generally speaking, most people use trusts to help maintain control of assets while they’re alive and medically competent, as well as indirectly maintain control of the disposition of assets if they’re medically unable to do so or in the event of death.

10.27.13

Qualified distributions to a beneficiary from an inherited Roth IRA are free from federal income taxes. To be qualified, the distribution must be made after a five-year holding period. The five-year period begins on January 1 of the year the deceased IRA owner first established any Roth IRA, and ends after five full calendar years. If you take a distribution from an inherited Roth IRA before this five-year period ends, any earnings you receive will be nonqualified, and will be subject to federal income taxes (earnings generally come out last).

8.26.13

Becoming a widow at any age can be one of the most difficult challenges a woman must face. Not only is there the emotional loss of a husband, but also the task of handling everything–including all the finances–without the help of a spouse. Even if you’ve always handled your family’s finances, the number of financial and legal matters that have to be settled in the weeks and months following your loved one’s death can be overwhelming.

8.23.12

Because women often find themselves in such different circumstances than men, it is even more crucial for them to educate themselves about estate planning, investment planning, and asset protection planning.